Since arriving on Capitol Hill in January 2023, U.S. Rep. Dale Strong has dedicated much of his time to fighting the ever-expanding influence and reach of the Chinese Communist Party. In his latest effort, the Congressman from Alabama’s Fifth District has reintroduced a bill appropriately entitled the SHIELD( Strategic Homeland Intelligence and Enforcement Legislation to Defend) Against the CCP Act.
The legislation, if passed, would establish a Department of Homeland Security working group to counter threats posed by the CCP and would require the group to examine, assess, and report on the array of ‘nontraditional tactics’ used by China and the efforts of DHS to counter the activities.
“China represents one of the most aggressive and dangerous threats to our national security today,” said Strong (R-Monrovia). “This bill ensures DHS has a dedicated team working to combat this threat. I’m proud this legislation has broad support from my colleagues in the House and our law enforcement partners. It’s past time to get this legislation to the President’s desk and to protect the American people.”
After passing the House last month with significant support, the bill is now gaining influential supporters outside of Congress. This week, it was endorsed by the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), and the National Fusion Center Association (NFCA).
Eric Brown, President of the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, believes Strong’s bill is exactly what is needed to counter large-scale drug trafficking enabled by the CCP.
“The Chinese Communist Party is actively involved—both directly and indirectly—in supporting transnational criminal organizations engaged in the importation and trafficking of fentanyl, illicit drug precursors, and other controlled substances that have significantly contributed to drug poisonings and deaths across our country,” said Brown. “We are grateful to Representative Strong for introducing the SHIELD Against CCP Act and for his commitment to dedicating resources, personnel, and programming to confront these deadly threats.”
“The NNOAC is on the front lines of this fight, and we are committed to working with Congressman Strong and our partners at DHS to confront and dismantle the networks behind illicit drug trafficking.”
According to Mike Sena, President of the National Fusion Center Association, Strong’s legislation takes the correct, critical steps needed to address the growing threat of Chinese aggression.
“We applaud Representative Dale Strong for championing the SHIELD Against the CCP Act,” Sena said. “This bill importantly acknowledges the vital role of the National Network of Fusion Centers and the importance of intelligence sharing and collaboration across federal, state, and local levels to protect national security.”
“We are especially grateful for the recognition of our dedicated state and local public safety professionals, both sworn and civilian, who work tirelessly every day to track criminal trends and share timely, credible threat information. Their commitment and expertise are essential to protecting our communities and enhancing our nation’s ability to respond to emerging threats.”
According to Strong, it is estimated that the People’s Republic of China’s theft of U.S. intellectual property reaches into the billions, amounting to approximately $4,000 to $6,000 per American family of four after paying taxes.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
